Business

The seeking of strategy where it is not: towards a theory of strategy absence

Article Abstract:

Strategy researchers have failed to study situations wherein strategy systems and processes are expected but are absent. They have assumed that all organizations have a strategy, whether explicit or implicit. Inability to examine strategyless conditions can be counterproductive because it prevents full understanding of strategy. To redress the situation, a study on firms without a strategy is conducted. Analysis shows that strategy absence can be as beneficial as strategy presence in certain contexts. It is found to have the power to free management to become flexible, which is highly necessary in a turbulent environment. Strategy absence can also be applied to encourage innovation and creativity which results in successful products and ideas. In this light, strategy researchers should not ignore strategy absence as a potentially significant tool for improving firm performance.

Does strategy research need game theory?

Article Abstract:

Game theory may have useful applications in business strategy research. Game theory is known to be most applicable to the study of rational behavior in situations where there exists an interdependence of possible outcomes. The study of the logic of situational dynamics should therefore be of interest to business strategy researchers since many areas of corporate strategic planning and implementation may be similarly viewed as situations involving an interdependence in the decision making of rival firms. A discussion of the criticisms frequently posed by business strategy researchers to the use of game theory is provided to examine the possible limitations in its application in business strategy research.

Suggestions for studying strategy process: a research note

Article Abstract:

Strategy process research focuses on the study of the development and implementation of organizational strategies, as well as the understanding of strategic change processes. Interest in this area of study has been growing in recent years. Three suggestions are offered to give direction to efforts in examining the strategy process. Strategy process researchers are advised to establish the meaning of process to lessen the confusion regarding the various usages of the term, to explain the process theory so that empirical research design and implementation may be guided, and to work on research designs for the observation of the process.